When a request for assistance for a cancer diagnosis comes to us, we will make every attempt to personally deliver a toolbox within 48 hours of contact.

This should be done in person with a family or friend of the individual so that you can go over the contents of the toolbox, how to use it, the benefit and necessity of organization while going through countless appointments and procedures. It is best to the the spouse or friend to take charge of the organization of the toolbox so that the individual diagnosed can focus on dealing with their challenges.

If not possible to deliver a toolbox or the individual prefers to not meet in person, then we will send a toolbox directly to their preferred location (home, work, etc.) via UPS or FED-EX. We can then attempt to go over the toolbox using other means possible such as a phone conversation, email etc.

When a Co-Worker has Cancer: What to do - and not do
Wanting to help is natural; knowing how is difficult.
This article from Cancer and Careers Website provides a basic overview when a co-worker is diagnosed.

Debbie Pike

VICE PRESIDENT - WELLNESS

Debbie was diagnosed with cancer in 2006. Her husband is an LA County firefighter. She was introduced to FCSN when she was diagnosed. After she completed her treatment, she was asked to become a mentor at the Long Beach Memorial Hospital. Debbie wanted to give back to the FCSN after they were there for her and her family, so she became an FCSN mentor. After years of being a mentor, she was asked to be the wellness coordinator in 2012. She currently serves on the board of directors as the VP of Wellness.

During the time when someone is diagnosed with an illness or disabling injury family, friends, and co-workers come out of the woodwork to offer assistance, provide meals or simply discuss the condition. Unfortunately however, this can be burdensome to those going through a life changing event.

The web offers a great ability to provide a resource for people to use to find out latest status, post surgery updates, even coordinate assistance.

We strongly encourage that a family member (son or daughter) or even a close friend be responsible for developing and maintaining a web page using one of the following free web pages to create a "go-to" place for information and event coordination.

It is always appreciated when friends bring meals but unfortunate when they all come on the same day.

Use the web page to create a sign-up for meal deliveries, getting rides for kids to events (soccer practice, school etc).

Finally, use the page to broadcast updates on conditions to minimize the phone calls and impromptu visits to allow the person control of their healing.